East Timorese President Jose Ramos-Horta has delayed a planned state
visit to Australia after bushfires killed at least 131 people, expressing
"condolences" over the disaster.

"On behalf of the Timorese people, I would like to extend my deep
condolences to our brothers and sisters of Australia, especially to those
who have lost their loved ones and properties in this tragedy," Dr
Ramos-Horta said in a statement.

"My thoughts and prayers are with the people of Australia."

The Nobel Laureate's planned official visit from February 10-15 would
be delayed until later in the year "due to the tragic circumstances
many Australians are facing at this time, and the Australian Government's
focus on relief efforts," the statement said.